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Update April 12, 2024

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Burma (Myanmar)

Travel Advisory January 22, 2024

Burma (myanmar) - level 4: do not travel.

Updated to include information on Civil Unrest, Armed Conflict, Wrongful Detention, Arbitrary Enforcement of Local Laws, Land Mines and Unexploded Ordnance, and the “If You Decide to Travel to Burma” section.

Do not travel to Burma due to  civil unrest, armed conflict, and arbitrary enforcement of local laws . Reconsider travel to Burma due to  limited and/or inadequate healthcare and emergency medical resources, and areas with land mines and unexploded ordnances . Exercise increased caution due to  wrongful detentions .

COUNTRY SUMMARY : The Burma military regime detained and deposed elected government officials in a February 2021 coup d'état. Protests and demonstrations against military rule continue, often on significant dates. The military has responded to these protests by arbitrarily arresting individuals and with the indiscriminate use of deadly force against protesters and bystanders.

The Department of State has determined that the risk of wrongful detention of U.S. nationals by the military regime exists.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services in Burma as U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel outside of Rangoon. Dependents under the age of 21 cannot accompany U.S. government employees who work in Burma.

Civil unrest and armed conflict  occur throughout Burma. The level of civil unrest and armed conflict varies significantly between and within states and regions and may change at any time.

Civil unrest and armed violence due to fighting between the military regime and various ethnic groups and militia occur in parts of Chin, Kachin, Kayin, Rakhine, and Shan States, as well as in Sagaing, and Magway regions.

Improvised explosive devices (IEDs) are used in the ongoing armed conflicts, including in the Yangon urban area. From January to July 2023, the U.S. Embassy in Rangoon confirmed an average of fourteen IEDs per month detonated against regime targets in the Yangon urban area, while an average of nine unexploded IEDs were discovered and safely disposed of per month. IEDs used in Yangon urban area tend to be designed for smaller impacts against specific targets. Outside of Yangon, IED attacks against checkpoints and other critical infrastructure have been designed for larger impact.

While land mines and unexploded ordnance (UXO) exist throughout Burma, the greatest concerns are in the areas of Shan, Chin, and Kachin. The locations of landmines and UXO are often not marked or otherwise unidentifiable.

The military regime arbitrarily enforces local laws , including carrying out  random and wrongful detentions of U.S. citizens without due process . U.S. citizens traveling or residing in Burma may be detained without access to U.S. consular services or information about their alleged crime.

U.S. citizens and other foreign nationals are not exempt from prolonged interrogations and extended detention without due process of law. Local law enforcement officials may detain and/or deport U.S. citizens for speaking out or protesting against the military regime, including on their personal social media accounts, and for sending private electronic messages critical of the military regime. Facebook and Twitter are banned in Myanmar; police have sought bribes from individuals using a VPN to access social media sites even though VPNs are not officially illegal.

Burma has  limited and/or inadequate healthcare and emergency medical resources due to critical staffing shortages in the public sector health workforce. Importation of medical supplies, including medicine, into Burma is not consistent and medical prescriptions and over-the-counter medicine may not be available.

Read the Safety and Security section on the  country information page .

If you decide to travel to Burma:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Follow the Embassy on Facebook and Twitter .
• Follow the Embassy’s Consular Section on Facebook .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Burma.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Purchase travel medical insurance that includes medical evacuation.
• Do not touch unknown metal objects and avoid traveling off well-used roads, tracks, and paths due to risk of unexploded ordnance.
• Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
• Make contingency plans to leave the country.
• Review local laws and conditions before traveling.
• Visit our website for  High-Risk Area Travelers .
• Share important documents, login information, and points of contact with loved ones so that they can manage your affairs if you are unable to return as planned to the United States.  Find a suggested list of such documents here .
• Develop a communication plan with family and/or your employer or host organization.
• Erase any sensitive photos, comments, or other materials that could be considered controversial or provocative by local groups from your social media pages, cameras, laptops, and other electronic devices prior to travel.

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

One page required for entry stamp

Travelers are required to show documentation for COVID-19 medical insurance, and a completed Health Declaration Form.

Amounts in excess of USD 10,000 must be declared upon entry

Amounts in excess of USD 10,000 must be declared upon exit

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Rangoon 110 University Ave Kamayut Township, Rangoon, Burma Telephone: (95) 1-753-6-509 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  (95) 1-753-6-509 Fax: (951)-751-2124 Email:  [email protected] Facebook Twitter

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to Burma.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Since the February 2021 coup, Burma’s military regime controls travel to, from, and within Burma. To enter Burma, you must have a valid passport with at least six months’ validity remaining and a valid visa. You should apply for your visa at a Burmese Embassy or Consulate abroad before you arrive in Burma. Inside the country, you will be required to show your passport with a valid visa at all airports, train stations, and hotels. Security checkpoints are common outside of tourist areas. COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate and Negative Test Results are no longer required for the entry. Travelers are still required to show documentation for COVID-19 medical insurance AND a completed Health Declaration Form. The Myanmar Insurance website has additional information.

Visa Information: Burma's eVisa program allows tourists and business travelers to apply for a visa online rather than physically applying at an embassy or consulate:

• You are generally notified within a few days whether you have been pre-approved for a visa.
• You must present the approval letter at Immigration when you enter Burma.
• Once you are approved for the visa, the visa needs to be used within three months.
• Apply at:  Myanmar eVisa (Official Government Website) .  Be aware that non-official websites may be fraudulent; beware of scams.

Military Travelers: Active-duty U.S. military personnel are not authorized to travel to Burma.

Burma has a  visas-on-arrival program  for certain business travelers. The program is available only to those with a formal letter of invitation from a business registered with the Burmese Ministry of Commerce, NOT to tourists.

There is also a meditation visa for visitors planning long-term studies at monasteries and meditation centers.

You can get information about entry requirements as well as other information from the  Embassy of Burma’s  website. The Embassy is located at 2300 S Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20008. Telephone: 202-332-4350. The Permanent Mission of Burma  to the UN is located at 10 East 77th St., New York, NY 10021.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Burma.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction  and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Messages regarding security-related events are posted on the  Embassy’s website .

Fighting between the Burma’s military forces and ethnic armed groups and militia forces continues in border regions, including parts of Kachin, Kayah, Kayin, Shan, Rakhine, and Chin States, and as well as in Sagaing and Magway in the center of the country. Travelers should avoid travel to these areas.

The destinations frequented by most U.S. citizen visitors, including Rangoon, Bagan, Ngapali Beach, Naypyitaw, and Mandalay, are not currently affected by this fighting, but the security situation can change quickly. See our Travel Advisory for more information.

Land mines and unexploded ordnance:  Conflict-affected areas are of greatest concern, particularly areas of Shan, Chin, and Kachin States. The location of landmines is often not marked or otherwise identifiable.

The regime’s Ministry of Hotels and Tourism publishes information on restricted areas.

Due to travel restrictions placed on U.S. diplomats by the de-facto authorities, our ability to assist U.S. citizens affected by incidents in remote and/or conflict-affected areas of Burma may be limited.

Crime:  Crime rates in Burma, especially involving foreigners, are lower than those of many other countries in the region. Nevertheless, the crime rate has been increasing, particularly home burglaries and petty crime. Violent crime against foreigners is rare, but there have been incidents involving attacks by taxi drivers and muggings. Citizens are advised to take particular care when taking taxis late at night.

See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for more information.

Victims of Crime:  Report crimes to the local police at 199 or in person at the police station in the district where the crime took place; and contact the U.S. Embassy at +(95) (1) 7536-509, ext. 4240, Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(95) 1 7536-509.  Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• help you find appropriate medical care.
• assist you in reporting a crime to the police.
• contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• explain the local criminal justice process in general terms.
• provide a list of local attorneys.
• provide information on  victim’s compensation programs in the United States .
• provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution.
• help you find accommodation and arrange flights home.
• replace a stolen or lost passport.

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance.

Disaster Preparedness

• Cyclones and Tropical Storms:  Cyclones may occur in two, three-month seasons peaking in May and November, respectively, during which travel conditions may deteriorate significantly. In addition, intense rainfall and squalls may occur during the rainy season (approximately June to October annually). Travelers are encouraged to prepare for cyclone emergencies and monitor local news stations when cyclones are forecast. The Myanmar Department of Meteorology and Hydrology has a color-coded system for storm systems: red for storms approaching landfall in Burma, orange for storms moving towards Burma, yellow for developing storms, and brown for current storms. Additional information on storm preparedness may be found on our Crisis and Disaster Abroad webpage.
• Earthquakes do occur throughout Burma. Check here for information about  earthquake preparedness .

The Department of Homeland Security’s page has numerous resources on emergency kits, preparing for disasters and developing emergency plans:  https://www.ready.gov/.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field.  In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities.  U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance .  

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.  Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our webpage on  crimes against minors abroad  and the U.S.  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately.  See our  webpage  for further information.

Should you be detained, especially outside of Rangoon, we may not be able to assist quickly.

Law enforcement officials do not routinely notify us of the arrest of U.S. citizens, and prison officials have been known to obstruct regular access by consular officers to U.S. citizen detainees.

Dual Nationality: Burmese law forbids Burmese citizens from possessing dual nationality. On occasion, Burmese authorities have detained and pursued criminal proceedings against Burmese-Americans who have returned to Burma on U.S. passports and who have had in their possession evidence of Burmese citizenship, such as a National Registration Card.

Tourists Must Reside in a Registered Hotel or Guesthouse:  Burmese law requires that foreign tourists reside in registered hotels or guesthouses. Criminal penalties, including multiple years of imprisonment and deportation, apply for non-compliance.

Illegal drugs  carry severe penalties. Expect long jail sentences under harsh conditions, heavy fines, or even execution for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs.

Insulting Religion:  Under Burmese law, insulting religion is a prosecutable offense. ‘Insult’ is a very broad term that could include tattoos or other religious representations in a non-religious context.  Images of the Buddha can be particularly sensitive. In 2016, a tourist was deported for allegedly having a tattoo of the Buddha on his leg. In 2020, a Facebook user from Meikhtila who criticized monks on social media was sentenced to over a year imprisonment; two other individuals were arrested for drawing graffiti of a skull wearing a monk’s robe. As in any country, visitors are encouraged to be respectful of local customs when visiting religious sites.

Drones:  Importing unmanned aerial systems (drones) without prior permission from authorities and flying them in sensitive areas can result in criminal penalties, including jail time and the permanent confiscation of the drone. Sensitive areas include government buildings, famous tourist sites, and religious buildings. Because it is rarely clear what constitutes a sensitive area, all recreational use of drones is inadvisable.  Multiple foreigners have recently been detained for flying drones in sensitive locations.

Social Media:  You may be prosecuted for posting negative or derogatory comments on social media, including Facebook, under the 2013 Telecommunications Law, which criminalizes “extortion of any person, coercion, unlawful restriction, defamation, interfering, undue influence, or intimidation using a telecommunications network.” If convicted, you may face a fine and/or imprisonment. 

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  Consensual same-sex sexual activity is illegal under section 377 of the Burmese penal code, which has provisions against “sexually abnormal” behavior and entails punishments up to life imprisonment. Laws against “unnatural offenses” apply equally to men and women. These laws are rarely enforced; however, LGBTQI+ persons have reported police using the threat of prosecution to extort bribes. LGBTQI+ activists have also reported allegations of rape by security forces in some cases, arbitrary arrest (for example for loitering), detention, and broad societal and familial discrimination.

See our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights Report  for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities:  Individuals with disabilities should be prepared to face difficulties throughout Burma. Roads and sidewalks are often difficult to cross. Ramps or handicapped-accessible facilities are rare. 

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

For emergency services in Burma, dial 119.

COVID-19 Testing:

Testing is available at the following locations: 

• Yangon Airport Molecular Lab: located on Pyay Road near the Htan Pin Gone bus stop and DHL Myanmar warehouse at the airport. Telephone numbers: 094 4409 9941 / 094 4409 9942 
• N Health: located in Rangoon at the Tourist Burma Building on the corner of Maha Bandula St. and Sule Paya St. (near Sule Pagoda). Telephone numbers: 01 230 3202 / 09 519 9122 
• Pun Hlaing Hospital: located in Rangoon on Pun Hlaing Estate Avenue, Hlaing Tharyar Township, as well as at Pun Hlaing Clinic Downtown Rangoon, No. 14/A, Taw Win Street (Corner of Ambassador St and Taw Win St), Dagon Township.  Telephone number: 099400 60222 
• Samitivej International Clinic: located in Rangoon at 9E/2 Kabar Aye Pagoda Road, Mayangone Township. Telephone numbers: 01 656 732 / 01 660 545 / 09 42427 4301 
• International SOS Clinic: located in Rangon at Inya Lake Hotel, 37 Kaba Aye Pagoda Road.  Email:  [email protected]

COVID-19 Vaccines: The COVID-19 vaccine is available for U.S. citizens to receive in Burma. Some private clinics in Burma offer COVID-19 vaccination programs, including booster shots.  American citizens in Burma seeking vaccination should contact private clinics directly for more information.  The Embassy shares this information as a courtesy but does not endorse or recommend any specific vaccination program in Burma. 

• Grand Hantha International Hospital: located in Rangoon at No.3, Corner of Lower Kyee Myin Daing Kanner Road and Narnattaw.  Email:  [email protected] .
• Visit the FDA’s website to  learn more about FDA-approved vaccines  in the United States.  

Ambulance services are:

• not present throughout the country or are unreliable.
• not equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment.
• not staffed with trained paramedics and often have little or no medical equipment. 

Given the above information, injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.

Most medical facilities in Burma are inadequate for routine medical care. If you are seeking medical care in Burma, you will be asked to pay cash for all health care services and medicines before receiving care; credit cards are not accepted in most health care facilities and insurance will not be billed. Adequate Emergency Medical Services including ambulance care is not reliably available. Patients who are admitted to public hospitals typically need a family member or friend to assist them with care in the hospital, and food and medical supplies must be purchased for use in the hospital. Few medical personnel in Burma are trained to U.S. standards.

U.S. citizens needing urgent medical care have been denied treatment at public hospitals due to a lack of funds.  In an emergency, you would likely need to be medically evacuated to a hospital outside Burma . Medical evacuation from Burma is expensive and is most often transacted in cash, therefore medical evacuation insurance is advised.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance coverage overseas. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation (see above).

Medication:  Many pharmaceuticals on sale in Burma are counterfeit or adulterated, or may not be available. Travelers should consider Burmese pharmaceuticals generally unsafe to use and should bring their own medications for the duration of their stay in Burma.

If traveling with prescription medication, check with these authorities to ensure that the medication is legal in Burma.  Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Rangoon's roads are generally in poor condition, and traffic is congested throughout the day. Slow-moving vehicles, bicycles, animals, and heavy pedestrian traffic create numerous hazards for drivers on Rangoon's streets. If you drive in Burma, remain alert to avoid hitting pedestrians. If you are a pedestrian, remain alert even when you believe you have the right of way.

Most roads outside of Rangoon have one to two lanes and are potholed, often unpaved, and unlit at night.  Many of the truck drivers traveling between China and Rangoon reportedly travel under the influence of methamphetamines and other stimulants. Drunken and/or drugged drivers are common during the four-day Buddhist water festival in mid-April.

Driving at night is particularly dangerous. Most Burmese drivers do not turn on their headlights until the sky is completely dark. Many do not use headlights at all. Many bicyclists use no lights or reflectors.

Roadside assistance and ambulances are generally unavailable.

Public Transportation:  Please refer to our  Road Safety  page for more information.

Traffic Laws:  Vehicles drive on the right side as in the United States, however, a majority of vehicles still have the steering wheel positioned on the right. The “right of way” concept is generally respected, but military convoys and motorcades always have precedence. Vehicles generally lack seat belts. Child car seats are unavailable.

Most accidents are settled between the parties on site, with the party at fault paying the damages. In the event of an accident with a pedestrian, the driver is always considered to be at fault and subject to fines or arrest, regardless of the circumstances.

Aviation Safety Oversight : As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Burma, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the Government of Burma’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the  FAA safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Burma should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts at  MARAD . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website and the NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

For additional IPCA-related information, please see  the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act (ICAPRA)  report.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Myanmar travel advice

Latest updates: The Need help? section was updated.

Last updated: April 5, 2024 07:28 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, myanmar - avoid all travel.

Safety and security situation

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Thingyan Water Festival

The Thingyan Water Festival will take place from April 15 to 17, 2024.

Civil unrest and politically motivated acts of violence may occur. Be aware of your surroundings at all times.

Political situation

On February 1, 2021, the Myanmar military detained officials from the elected government and declared a state of emergency, effectively seizing control of the country's governance. Martial law has been imposed in several townships. Curfews are in effect at specific locations and gatherings are banned.

Demonstrations take place regularly across the country, particularly in Yangon and Mandalay. Security forces have been using excessive and lethal force against protesters in several locations. This has resulted in multiple casualties.

Civil unrest and acts of politically motivated violence may occur anywhere and at any time, particularly leading up to and during days or events of national significance. Improvised explosive devices have been used throughout the country, including in major cities such as Yangon, Mandalay, and Nay Pyi Taw. Further attacks targeting public venues frequented by foreigners, such as shopping malls, markets, hotels, bars and restaurants are possible.

The political situation remains unpredictable and could deteriorate further.

If you're in Myanmar:

• maintain a high level of vigilance at all times
• avoid unnecessary movement, especially on occasions of national significance
• regularly review your security practices
• follow political and social developments carefully
• monitor media to stay informed on the evolving situation
• plan to have adequate water and food supplies for at least 4 days
• charge your mobile phone in case of internet, communication and power outages
• avoid all demonstrations and gatherings
• expect roadblocks, searches and a heavy military presence

Arbitrary enforcement of local laws

Myanmar's military regime arbitrarily enforces local laws, and may carry out random and arbitrary detentions without due process. If you are in Myanmar, you are at risk of arbitrary detention.

If you travel to or remain in Myanmar despite these risks:

• stay indoors
• maintain a low profile when going outside
• avoid concentrations of police and security forces
• comply with the regulations and guidelines from local authorities

Border areas with Thailand, China, Laos, Bangladesh and India

The security situation along the border varies and can change quickly.

Clashes between the military and armed groups are ongoing in several border regions. This has caused the displacements of hundreds of thousands of civilians to neighbouring countries.

Landmines are also a danger, particularly in border areas. Unmarked landmines can be found in many border regions and pose a significant risk to your safety.

If you travel to border areas despite this advisory:

• exercise extreme caution
• avoid concentrations of police and security forces as well as large gatherings
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Armed clashes

Since October 27, 2023, there has been an escalation of conflict in several parts of Myanmar. Multiple armed resistance groups have attacked regime security forces in Mandalay and Sagaing regions, and the following states:

• Kayah (formerly Karenni)

There has also been an increase in the number of attacks and regime airstrikes resulting in civilian casualties. The armed conflict is expected to continue and could expand to other states and regions and escalate. The security situation is highly volatile and additional violent attacks could occur at any time across the country.

Violent clashes between regime security forces and armed groups have resulted in:

• significant internal displacement
• disrupted access to supplies, cash and goods
• border crossing closures

If you are in Myanmar:

• exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings
• expect heightened presence of security forces
• expect increased travel disruptions and roadblocks
• use your judgement to decide the best time and the safest means of exit if you need to move to a safer location
• monitor international media to stay informed about the latest developments and decrees

Disruptions to supply chains and the closing of border crossings in Myanmar may result in shortages of necessities.

• Keep a supply of water, food, medicine and cash on hand.

Chin (Paletwa Township), Kachin, Rakhine, and northern Shan States

Fighting between Myanmar regime military forces and non-state armed resistance groups is occurring in these areas and has resulted in a significant number of deaths, the displacement of hundreds of thousands of civilians as well as disruptions to road and rail connections.

In August 2017, there were coordinated attacks on police and security forces in northern Rakhine state. Since December 2018, serious armed clashes between ethnic armed groups and the military have been occurring in parts of northern and central Rakhine State, including in the tourist destination of Mrauk U. Detonations of improvised explosive devices have taken place in Sittwe Township and on the road between Sittwe and Mrauk U.

Violence in the area is ongoing and the situation is volatile. The security situation can deteriorate suddenly and unexpectedly. Be vigilant and follow the instructions of local authorities.

Travel restrictions

Travel to parts of the country, including to and from land border crossings, are strictly controlled by the Government of Myanmar. As such, there are some parts of the country where Canadian Embassy officials are not allowed to travel freely without permission from the Myanmar government. The Canadian Embassy's ability to deliver consular assistance, including in an emergency, may be limited or delayed in these areas.

The Ministry of Hotels and Tourism maintains lists of permitted and restricted areas. Consult these lists prior to travelling to Myanmar, especially if you plan on travelling outside of popular tourist destinations.

Inter-communal violence

Inter-communal violence occurs. More than 200 people have been killed in religious violence since June 2012, and more than 140,000 have been displaced (mostly in Rakhine State). Attacks against religious buildings, shops, and homes have taken place in several areas, including the regions of Bago and Mandalay, resulting in injuries, deaths and displaced persons. Tensions remain high, and further violence is possible. Curfews and restrictions may be imposed or changed on short notice.

Incidents of violence, which resulted in injuries and damage to property, occurred in Mandalay in early July 2014. In late March 2014, violent protests targeting the staff and offices of international organizations took place in Sittwe, Rakhine State.

Security forces

The presence of police and security forces is likely to increase in Yangon and elsewhere in Myanmar on significant dates, including the anniversary of demonstrations led by monks to protest for political reform (September 26) and the anniversary of the 1988 uprising (August 8).

Violent crime

There have also been incidents of violent crime against foreigners including muggings.

Exercise a high level of personal security awareness at all times.

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching occur. Scams involving gems and jewellery occur. Merchants sell lower-quality items at inflated prices with promises that the items can be resold later at a profit. The guarantees that merchants offer are not always honoured. The Government of Canada cannot assist in obtaining refunds for purchases made.

• Ensure that your personal belongings, passports and other travel documents are secure at all times
• Carefully consider all purchases if you are not knowledgeable about gems and jewellery

Demonstrations

Demonstrations can occur and have the potential to suddenly turn violent. They can lead to significant disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings
• Follow the advice of local authorities
• Monitor local media

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Water activities

Exercise caution at beach resorts in Ngwesaung, Chaungtha and Ngapali as there are strong underwater currents and riptides. There are no lifeguards and drownings have occurred.

Scuba diving

Exercise caution when considering diving excursions in Myanmar. Rented diving equipment may not meet internationally acceptable safety standards and may not be maintained adequately.

Water safety abroad

Tourists trekking in remote parts of the country have experienced difficulties with military authorities, even after obtaining prior permission.

Tourist facilities

Tourist facilities are adequate in Bagan, Inle Lake, Mandalay, Ngapali Beach, Yangon and Taunggyi, but limited elsewhere. Good hotel facilities exist in Nay Pyi Taw, but transportation is limited. Foreign tourists rarely visit Nay Pyi Taw and may be viewed with suspicion. Foreigners can expect to pay several times more than locals for accommodations, domestic flights and entry to tourist sites throughout the country.

Communications

Telephone services are unreliable in Yangon and are difficult to find in other areas. Long-distance calls can be extremely expensive. There are Internet cafés in Yangon; identification is required, access to certain websites is restricted and records of which websites users have visited are kept. While some websites were unblocked in 2011, many remain inaccessible. Electronic communications, including email, may be monitored by local authorities.

Public transportation

Public transportation within Myanmar, including air, rail and sea travel, often does not meet international safety standards. Railway equipment tends to be outdated, and fatal accidents have occurred. Boat and ferry accidents causing deaths are common. Vessels may be in poor condition and overloading is a common problem.

Road safety

Travel is restricted outside major cities to designated tourist areas only. Permission from local authorities is required to visit certain areas. Military checkpoints on roads are common.

The general condition of automobiles does not meet minimal international standards. There is a combination of both left-hand and right-hand drive vehicles in use throughout the country. Driving can be hazardous, especially after dark. Some roads can become impassable, particularly during the rainy season. Drivers have little regard for traffic regulations and do not follow safe-driving practices. It is common for pedestrians and livestock to walk on roads. A driver involved in any accident with a pedestrian is always at fault and is liable to be detained.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Myanmar authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave from Myanmar.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: required  Business visa: required

A visa is required for tourism and business purposes and is valid for 28 days . It should be obtained prior to travel at a Myanmar diplomatic mission. An eVisa  option and multiple-entry business visas are available.

The Myanmar government has created a visa-on-arrival program to allow select business travellers, including Canadians, to obtain a business visa upon arrival at the Yangon International Airport. Travellers are encouraged not to rely on this option, however, as the program’s requirements and eligibility criteria remain unclear. It is strongly recommended that all travellers, including business travellers, carefully verify visa requirements and options with the nearest Embassy of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar before travelling.

Foreign journalists have had difficulty obtaining visas, and some have been denied entry upon arrival despite having received a visa. In the past, journalists, and tourists mistaken for journalists, have been denied entry when travelling on tourist visas, have been harassed and have had film and notes confiscated upon leaving the country.

Travel to parts of Myanmar is strictly controlled by government authorities. Foreigners have been deported and detained for visa offences.

eVisa  - Myanmar's Ministry of Immigration and population

Port of entry

You should use the same port of entry (e.g. Yangon International Airport) to enter and exit Myanmar to avoid problems with immigration services.

Border crossings

There are few land border crossing points, and permission to cross these borders may be required in advance, through a process separate from the required visa application. Some government-authorized tour companies may be able to secure the appropriate permission from the Ministry of Hotels and Tourism.

Border crossings may close with little or no notice, and entry may be restricted to the nationals of the bordering states and/or to the immediate area or border town. Although travel to or from Myanmar via a land route is possible, Global Affairs Canada advises against travel to the border areas with China, Laos and Thailand. 

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country   where yellow fever occurs.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Contact a designated  Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre  well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection that can cause swelling of the brain.  It is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Risk is very low for most travellers. Travellers at relatively higher risk may want to consider vaccination for JE prior to travelling.

Travellers are at higher risk if they will be:

• travelling long term (e.g. more than 30 days)
• making multiple trips to endemic areas
• staying for extended periods in rural areas
• visiting an area suffering a JE outbreak
• engaging in activities involving high contact with mosquitos (e.g., entomologists)

Malaria  is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination. 

Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:  • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.  • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows. • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.  • Wear permethrin-treated clothing.    If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Cholera is a risk in parts of this country. Most travellers are at very low risk.

To protect against cholera, all travellers should practise safe food and water precautions .

Travellers at higher risk of getting cholera include those:

• visiting, working or living in areas with limited access to safe food, water and proper sanitation
• visiting areas where outbreaks are occurring

Vaccination may be recommended for high-risk travellers, and should be discussed with a health care professional.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

Lymphatic filariasis , also known as elephantiasis, is caused by filariae (tiny worms) spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can cause a range of illnesses. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from mosquito bites. There is no vaccine available for lymphatic filariasis although drug treatments exist.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Human cases of avian influenza have been reported in this destination. Avian influenza   is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds and in rare cases it can infect mammals, including people. The risk is low for most travellers.

Avoid contact with birds, including wild, farm, and backyard birds (alive or dead) and surfaces that may have bird droppings on them. Ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs and wild game, are properly cooked.

Travellers with a higher risk of exposure include those: 

• visiting live bird/animal markets or poultry farms
• working with poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, domestic ducks)
• hunting, de-feathering, field dressing and butchering wild birds and wild mammals
• working with wild birds for activities such as research, conservation, or rehabilitation
• working with wild mammals, especially those that eat wild birds (e.g., foxes)

All eligible people are encouraged to get the seasonal influenza shot, which will protect them against human influenza viruses. While the seasonal influenza shot does not prevent infection with avian influenza, it can reduce the chance of getting sick with human and avian influenza viruses at the same time.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)   is a virus that attacks and impairs the immune system, resulting in a chronic, progressive illness known as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). 

High risk activities include anything which puts you in contact with blood or body fluids, such as unprotected sex and exposure to unsterilized needles for medications or other substances (for example, steroids and drugs), tattooing, body-piercing or acupuncture.

Medical services and facilities

Limited medical facilities are available in Yangon but may not meet Canadian standards and are very limited elsewhere in the country. Foreign prescription drugs are often counterfeit and are unsafe to use. There are no emergency neonatal services in Myanmar.

Medical evacuation is necessary for cases of serious illness or accident. Ensure that your travel health insurance covers medical evacuations. Doctors and hospitals may demand immediate cash payment for health services and medical evacuation. Make sure you have adequate/accessible cash to cover the cost of emergency needs.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

The Canadian embassy does not normally receive timely notification of the detention, arrest or deportation of Canadian citizens in Myanmar. If you are arrested or jailed you should request immediate contact with the Embassy of Canada to Myanmar. Research laws before travelling, especially for an extended stay.

A foreigner who has broken the law is subject to deportation upon payment of fine or completion of prison sentence.

Under Myanmar law, insulting religion is a prosecutable offence. This includes any disrespectful treatment, depiction or image (including tattoos) of Buddha or other religious representation, or wearing any tattoo of Buddha anywhere below the waist. Foreign nationals have been sentenced to prison, fined and/or deported for breaking this law.

Missionary activities and the importation of religious materials are illegal without the written permission of the Myanmar authorities.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect imprisonment or a death sentence.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Under Myanmar's immigration act, tourists are required to stay in registered hotels, motels, inns, guest houses or resorts. You must show your passport and valid visa at domestic airports, train stations, hotels and security checkpoints. It is illegal to enter restricted areas without authorization.

Political activism

Political activism (including the dissemination of printed materials), protests, demonstrations and unauthorized assemblies are not tolerated in Myanmar. Freedom of speech and political activities are restricted, and the Myanmar government is very sensitive to any expression of opposition to its rule. Foreigners criticizing the regime in public may be arrested or detained.

Artifacts and gems

A permit is required to purchase or possess cultural or archaeological artifacts. It is illegal to export gems. Foreigners have been arrested, searched and imprisoned for attempting to take Myanmar gems out of the country.

Photography

Photography of scenes or people that could be considered politically sensitive, such as military installations, security personnel or demonstrations, is prohibited. Offenders could be arrested, deported and have their equipment confiscated. It is also illegal to fly a drone over certain religious installations.

International driving permits are not recognized in Myanmar. It is illegal to drive without a Myanmar driver's licence.

Imports and export

Customs officials strictly limit what is brought into and out of the country. Baggage is examined and may be searched upon arrival. It is illegal to enter or exit Myanmar with religious materials. Foreign currency in excess of US$10,000 must be declared upon arrival; failure to do so could result in imprisonment. Importation of communications equipment such as mobile phones and laptop computers has been restricted. Laptop computers have been taken from tourists and held at the airport until their departure. Customs regulations on prohibited imports and exports are often unclear and further advice on this subject should be sought from the nearest Myanmar embassy or consulate.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

The laws of Myanmar prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Myanmar.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Myanmar.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Myanmar, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

Travellers with dual citizenship

The Myanmar authorities activated a 2010 conscription law that came into effect on February 10, 2024. If local authorities consider you a citizen of Myanmar, you may be subject to military obligations requiring all men aged 18-35 and all women aged 18-27 to serve at least two years in the army, with possible extensions up to five years during a state of emergency. The current state of emergency began in February 2021 and has been extended to July 31, 2024. Future extensions are likely. There is no guarantee that travelling with a Canadian passport will provide protection from this law.

You may face up to three years in prison plus a fine, if you evade or ignore a summons to serve. The Government of Canada continues to recommend that Canadian travellers avoid all travel to Myanmar and take this advice seriously.

The Embassy of Canada in Myanmar is extremely limited in its ability to assist Canadian citizens who might be detained in Myanmar.

You should always travel using your valid Canadian passport and present yourself as Canadian to foreign authorities at all times to minimize the risk of your Canadian citizenship being denied. You may also need to carry and present a Myanmar passport for legal reasons, for example to enter and exit the country.

Citizenship is determined solely by national laws, and the decision to recognize dual citizenship rests completely with the country in which you are located when seeking consular assistance. If you are a Canadian citizen, you will require a valid Canadian passport to re-enter Canada.

Travelling as a dual citizen

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Myanmar.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Myanmar by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Myanmar to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Dress and behaviour

Exercise common sense and discretion in dress and behaviour, particularly when visiting religious sites. Dress conservatively and respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities or breaking the law.

Local customs  - Myanmar government

The currency of Myanmar is the kyat (MMK). U.S. currency is widely accepted; however, only new, unmarked and undamaged bank notes are accepted. Other foreign currencies are not accepted. There are a few official currency exchange offices in Yangon, including one at the Yangon International Airport. It is illegal to exchange currency at unauthorized locations.

Carry enough cash to cover all of your expenses while in Myanmar. Credit cards are not widely accepted. Even where credit card facilities do exist, Internet connections may be too slow to enable credit cards to be a reliable payment method. Traveller's cheques are never accepted and debit cards are not used for direct purchases. It is possible to find some internationally linked ABMs in Myanmar, but the daily withdrawal limits are low and the machines are often out of service. Neither cash advances via credit or debit card nor cheque-cashing services are available.

Seismic activity

Myanmar is located in an active seismic zone and minor earthquakes are common.

Monsoons and typhoons

The rainy (or monsoon) season extends from May to November. Severe rainstorms can cause flash flooding and landslides.

Cyclones usually occur between April and October. Severe rainstorms can result in significant loss of life, extensively damage infrastructure and hamper the provision of essential services.

Keep informed of regional weather forecasts, avoid disaster areas and follow the instructions of local authorities.

Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons .

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 199
• medical assistance: 192
• firefighters: 191

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Myanmar and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Myanmar (Burma)

Entry requirements.

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Myanmar set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Myanmar Embassy in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Myanmar.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Myanmar, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the day you arrive.

Visa requirements

British nationals must apply for a visa to enter Myanmar. If you have any queries about visas or entry requirements, you should check with your nearest Myanmar embassy.

If you overstay your visa, you will be liable to pay a fine and could face detention.

Applying for a visa

You can apply for a tourist visa online .

To apply for a business e-visa you need to be sponsored by a registered Myanmar company or a registered Chamber of Commerce association. Submit the proof of the invitation with your visa application in the form of a letter personally addressed to you, along with a copy of the company’s registration certificate . The letter must state the purpose and timeframe of your visit.

Non-governmental organisations and international non-governmental organisations are not eligible to sponsor visas.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Myanmar guide .

If you are arriving directly from certain countries in Africa and Latin America, you must show a yellow fever certificate to enter Myanmar.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Myanmar. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Importing unmanned aerial systems (drones) without prior permission from the authorities is potentially illegal.

Taking money into Myanmar

There is significant disruption to banking services. You may find that some ATMs are out of operation. Some bank branches may be closed, and some banks have limits to daily withdrawals. Electronic payments and transfers are mostly working, but many commercial outlets will only accept cash.

Expect to rely on cash for most of your stay. If you plan to bring more than 10,000 US dollars-worth of any foreign currency, you must declare this to customs on arrival or risk imprisonment. 

If you have to pay a visa fine or for excess baggage on departure, you will need to pay in US dollars.

Once you’re in Myanmar it can be difficult to change US dollars into kyats. Many moneychangers are closing due to pressure from the authorities. Notes are typically inspected very carefully.

Due to concerns over counterfeit money, exchange counters may refuse dollars with the letters AB and CB at the start of the serial number (top left-hand corner of the note).

Check your US dollars are in good condition, with no pen marks, folds or tears. Exchange counters prefer high-denomination bills.

If you want to pay for hotels or restaurants with a credit or debit card, phone ahead to check this will be possible.

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Latest update

We continue to advise:

Do not travel to Myanmar due to the dangerous security situation and the threat of civil unrest and armed conflict.

Myanmar (PDF 430.75 KB)

Asia (PDF 2.21 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 192 (Yangon General Hospital).

Call 199 or contact the local police.

Advice levels

Do not travel to Myanmar.

Do not travel to Myanmar due to the dangerous security situation and the threat of civil unrest and armed conflict.

See Safety .

• Explosions and other security incidents occur in Yangon and frequently in other parts of the country. Attacks are unpredictable in their location and intensity. Attacks may be planned against locations frequented by foreigners, including public spaces and civilian infrastructure, such as hotels and serviced apartments, restaurants, bars, shopping malls, schools, petrol stations and supermarkets. Minimise movement, especially on anniversaries and national days of significance. Monitor media for updates. We advise you to read the ' Full advice - Safety - Security situation and Armed conflict sections ' for more information.
• Since the Myanmar military assumed control of the country, there's been a significant increase in the level of violence, with many deaths and injuries. There have been widespread detentions, including of foreigners. Australians may be at risk of arbitrary detention.
• There are active conflicts between armed groups and security forces across many States and Regions, especially in the northwest and southeast of the country. Armed groups operate along Myanmar's borders with China, Thailand, Laos, Bangladesh and India. This includes official border crossings. There are also unmarked landmines and the use of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). If you choose to travel to these areas despite the risks, carefully assess the security situation, including curfews and travel restrictions.
• If, despite our advice, you remain in Myanmar, you should stay at home during curfew hours and follow stay-at-home orders. Avoid using any routes through known traffic checkpoints and any travel adjacent to regime-affiliated businesses and government buildings. Monitor the media and keep in close contact with friends and family. The economic and business environment remains unpredictable. The Australian Embassy's ability to deliver consular assistance, including in an emergency, may be limited.
• Heightened security arrangements are in place for Australian officials. Australian officials follow protocols for staff movements and use enhanced security measures, including for travel outside Yangon.
• There've been a number of cases where foreign nationals have been trafficked into Myanmar (either directly into Yangon or via a neighbouring country) and forced to work in online scamming or other fraudulent activity, with poor pay and living conditions, restrictions on movement, and severe mistreatment. Exercise caution concerning offers of employment that appear 'too good to be true'.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• Medical facilities in Myanmar are severely stretched by the security situation, particularly outside Yangon. Hospitals have closed or ceased providing services at short notice. Medical evacuations may be delayed or not possible. Talk to your travel or insurance provider. Be particularly cautious if you have an existing medical condition.
• Medication sold in Myanmar can be fake. Ensure you have enough legal medication for the duration of your stay.
• Common insect-borne diseases include malaria, dengue, chikungunya and Japanese encephalitis. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof. Consider taking anti-malarial medicine. Ensure all your vaccinations are up to date before travel.
• Many animals in Myanmar carry rabies. It's fatal without immediate treatment. Don't feed, pat or tease dogs or monkeys. Get medical assistance immediately if an animal bites or scratches you.
• Polio is a risk. Hepatitis-A and typhoid also occur. If you're staying for more than four weeks, carry proof of your polio vaccination. Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases such as hepatitis, typhoid and tuberculosis are common. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked food. HIV/AIDS is common. Take steps to reduce your risk of exposure to the virus.

Full travel advice:  Health

• Myanmar authorities often don't tell consular staff about Australians they've arrested, detained or deported. If you're arrested or jailed ask to contact the Australian Embassy immediately.
• A 2010 conscription law has come into effect following an announcement by the military administration. If local authorities consider you to be a citizen of Myanmar, you may be required to serve in the armed forces. The length of service can depend on criteria such as age, occupation, and whether there is a state of emergency. Myanmar does not recognise dual nationality. You may not be exempt from this law if you are an Australian-Myanmar dual national holding an Australian passport.
• Myanmar has strict communications laws, including laws being considered to prohibit the use of VPNs. Financial or criminal penalties may apply. Don't post negative comments about individuals or Myanmar on social media.
• Myanmar has strict religious laws. It's illegal to take religious materials in or out of the country without approval. Preaching or handing out religious material without approval is also illegal. There's also a law against 'insulting religion', including mistreating images of Buddha. Cover any Buddha tattoos. People in Myanmar are deeply respectful of their religious and cultural traditions. Don't wear shorts or sleeveless tops, especially at religious sites. Always remove your shoes and socks before entering a site.
• Customs rules are restrictive. Seek prior permission to import drones or radio equipment. Drones have been seized by customs officials and tourists have been arrested for operating drones. There are also strict rules about exporting gems, antiques and images of Buddha. Check items are legal before you buy them.
• Don't use or carry illegal drugs. Punishments include the death penalty. Same-sex relations and adultery are illegal. Be careful when taking photos. It's illegal to photograph military personnel or sites.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• If you decide to travel to Myanmar despite our advice, there are international flights to and from Yangon and Mandalay. Book directly with airlines or through your travel agent.
• You must stay in registered hotels and guesthouses. Register your address with immigration authorities if you're staying more than 90 days. Inform the authorities if you change hotels or will be away from your address.
• The military administration restricts travel in parts of the country, including to and from land border crossings. The Australian Embassy's ability to provide consular service, including in an emergency, may be extremely limited. States and regions of Myanmar are affected by armed conflict. If you intend to travel, check the restricted area list with local authorities. Carry your passport or Foreigners Registration Card. Officials may ask to see it.
• Driving cars or motorbikes on an Australian or international licence is illegal. Apply for a local licence through the  Road Transport Administration Department (Burmese) .
• Don't drive in the countryside at night, including on the Yangon–Naypyitaw–Mandalay highway and National Highway 1 linking Yangon and Mandalay. There are reports of attacks on these expressways. Don't leave the scene of an accident. Public transport, including buses, boats and trains, fail to meet international safety standards. Fatal accidents have occurred, especially on overnight trips.

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what we can and can't do to help you overseas.
• For consular help, contact the  Australian Embassy in Yangon .
• Our ability to provide consular services in Myanmar may be limited.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Security situation.

The Myanmar military assumed control of the country and declared a state of emergency on 1 February 2021. There has been a significant increase in violence, with many deaths, injuries and arrests. 

There have been widespread detentions, including of foreigners. Australians may be at risk of arbitrary detention. Do not take photos of protests, and military personnel or sites.

Martial law is in place in areas of Myanmar, including some areas of Yangon. Avoid townships under martial law. Exercise caution if you need to be there.

A curfew is in place from 1am to 3am in the Yangon region. Curfew timings may differ in other regions and may change at short notice. Daily internet outages, restrictions and regular power outages may occur unexpectedly in Yangon and other parts of the country. 

Heightened security arrangements are in place for Australian officials. Australian officials follow protocols for staff movements and use enhanced security measures at all times, including for travel outside of Yangon. 

There are disruptions to basic services, including banking, communications, power and public health. Have arrangements in place for your essential needs. Services such as transport, travel and fuel may be affected.

If, despite our advice, you choose to remain in Myanmar, you should minimise movement and stay at home during curfew hours. Follow stay-at-home orders. The economic and business environment remains unpredictable. The Australian Embassy's ability to deliver consular assistance, including in an emergency, may be limited.  Maintain heightened security awareness , monitor the media, and keep in close contact with friends and family.

Australians in need of emergency consular assistance should contact the Australian Government 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre at +61 2 6261 3305 (or 1300 555 135 if calling from Australia). 

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Armed conflict

There are active conflicts involving armed groups and security forces across Myanmar. Explosions and other security incidents targeting security forces occur within Yangon and in other parts of the country. Attacks have resulted in civilian and military casualties and are unpredictable in their location and intensity.

Attacks may be planned against locations that are also frequented by foreigners such as hotels, apartments, restaurants and public spaces.

Armed conflict includes:

• active fighting between armed groups
• targeting of civilian infrastructure, including hotels and serviced apartments, restaurants, bars, shopping malls, schools, petrol stations and supermarkets
• use of artillery, mortars and surface-to-surface missiles
• improvised explosive devices and unmarked landmines
• civil unrest, violence and abductions
• attacks on days of national significance
• aerial bombings and air strikes from helicopters and fixed wing aircraft

If despite our advice, you choose to travel to higher risk areas:

• minimise movement and plan your trip carefully including communications
• find out about local information such as curfews and travel restrictions
• stay on main highways and in urban areas, noting even these may be dangerous

The use of Improvised Explosive devices (IEDs) and attacks has occurred across most parts of the country. Most IEDs and attacks have targeted military and government buildings, police stations and military-affiliated businesses. The public remains at risk, including in urban areas. 

Security forces are present in urban areas, including Yangon, which increase around days of significance and visits of regime and foreign officials. Checkpoints and barricades with armed security personnel are common and road/bridge access can change without notice. To the extent possible, avoid using any routes through known traffic checkpoints and any travel adjacent to regime-affiliated businesses and government buildings.

Rakhine and southern Chin State

Armed conflict between armed groups and military forces is occurring in northern and central Rakhine.

Risks to civilians due to the conflict have included being kidnapped, detained and killed by armed groups and killed or injured in clashes and artillery and air strikes, including in Sittwe. Telecommunications have been cut in northern and central Rakhine, and road links to other parts of Myanmar have been severed due to ongoing fighting. Armed groups have used explosive devices in Rakhine State, including on main roads. Travellers have been kidnapped from public buses and ferries. Familiarise yourself with local curfews and travel restrictions.

Fighting between rival ethnic groups, and between armed groups and Myanmar security forces in Shan States has increased since October 2023. The fighting has resulted in civilian casualties and displacement. Civilians including foreigners have been attacked along main roads, displaced, and killed or injured by landmines.

Kachin State

Kachin is also affected by conflict. Since the coup, there has been an influx in troop numbers and violent clashes. Civilian infrastructure, including roads and bridges, are often cut off or targeted for attack.

Kayin and Kayah States

There is conflict and violence across Kayin and Kayah states with increased troop numbers and violent clashes. Myanmar military forces have regularly employed airstrikes and heavy artillery. Numerous attacks have occurred in urban areas, with significant damage to civilian infrastructure, including religious buildings, health centres, and civilians. There is a large, displaced population in both states. Access is unpredictable, with numerous roadblocks and checkpoints. Many roads are completely cut off due to ongoing fighting. Telecommunications, electricity and internet connectivity disruptions occur regularly across the southeast of Myanmar.  

Sagaing, Magway and Chin States

Conflict and violence is ongoing across Sagaing, Magway and Chin States affecting urban areas and resulting in large numbers of civilian displacement. Instances of violence and attacks are unpredictable in location, scale and severity. Internet and communication services are heavily restricted in some areas. Security forces are actively monitoring road and transportation routes and often restrict movement.

Mon State and Tanintharyi Region

Conflict in Kayah and Kayin has spilled over into Mon and Tanintharyi. Roadblocks and checkpoints are present, and there is an increased military presence and conflict in select townships. Internet connectivity disruptions occur regularly. 

Myanmar’s Border Areas

Security along Myanmar's large border varies. Armed groups operate in border areas including at land border crossings. Several border crossings remain closed.

Terrorist and anti-regime attacks in Myanmar, carried out by a range of actors, have targeted government buildings, including military-affiliated regime schools, hospitals, hotels, shopping centres and public transport.

Since the military takeover, the incidence of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and attacks has increased and resulted in a highly volatile environment where violence occurs across the entire country. While security forces or administrative elements appointed by the ruling council are the primary targets, civilian-used infrastructure and public spaces may be targeted. There is a high threat of clashes between armed groups and the military in major urban centres and the threat to the public remains high.

To stay safe:

• take official warnings seriously and follow local instructions
• be alert to possible threats, especially in public places
• report any suspicious activity or items to the police
• monitor the news for any new or emerging threats

If there's an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe. Avoid the affected area in case there's a secondary attack.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Civil unrest and political tension

Protest activity is infrequent but can occur randomly. Protests and organised assemblies of people are not permitted. National dates of significance may see rallies and silent strikes and there's a higher likelihood of opposition attacks, including:

• Independence Day (4 January)
• the anniversary of the 2021 coup (1 February)
• Armed Forces Day (27 March)
• Martyrs’ Day (19 July)
• the anniversary of the 1988 uprising (8 August)
• the anniversary of demonstrations led by monks (26 September)

These events often see an increase in police and security forces presence in Yangon and elsewhere. Tensions may be heightened. Exercise caution and:

• minimise movement and avoid all political gatherings and protests
• avoid areas cordoned off by security forces, areas of known or possible unrest, facilities and vehicles linked to security forces and the military administration
• don't take photographs of rallies, the military or police
• follow instructions of local authorities, including stay-at-home orders, and curfews
• monitor the media and other news sources for possible unrest
• be extra careful around public holidays and other important dates and events such as elections

Be alert to rapid changes in restrictions, including on the use of communication devices and VPNs.

Crime rates in Myanmar, while once lower than other countries in the region, have dramatically increased since the coup. Economic pressure may increase the crime rate further.

You could encounter:

• petty theft

To help protect yourself against theft:

• pay close attention to your belongings, particularly in crowded areas
• hold bags and backpacks in front of you or in ways that make them harder to snatch

When using credit cards or ATMs:

• avoid exposed locations – choose ATMs in banks and shopping centres 
• check for skimming devices before use
• protect your PIN
• monitor your bank records

Report any theft straight away to local police. See  Local contacts

Exercise caution in relation to offers of employment that appear 'too good to be true'. Foreign nationals have been trafficked into Myanmar (either directly into Yangon or via a neighbouring country) and forced to work in online scamming or other fraudulent activity, with poor pay and living conditions, restrictions on movement, and severe mistreatment. Some victims have had their passports confiscated and been held for ransom.

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological, and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas whilst travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk.   

Reporting indicates that kidnapping has increased in Myanmar since 2021, especially in rural areas where criminal groups engage in a range of illicit activities. Criminal kidnappers target a range of victims for financial gain. 

If, despite our advice, you travel to an area with a high risk of kidnapping, our ability to provide consular assistance in these destinations will be limited.  

To reduce the risk of kidnapping:  

• always be alert to your personal security and surroundings  
• get professional security advice for travel in locations with a heightened kidnap risk  
• check your accommodation has appropriate security measures  
• avoid isolated locations, particularly when travelling alone  
• notify family or friends of planned travel, and share your location   
• avoid talking about your money or business affairs  
• use ATMs in public places and during daylight hours  
• avoid giving personal details to strangers online or over the phone  

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers. Ransom payments to kidnappers have funded further terrorist attacks and criminal activity. Paying a ransom to terrorist groups will likely break Australian counter-terrorism financing laws.  

More information:  

• Kidnapping  

Climate and natural disasters

Myanmar can experience  natural disasters  and  severe weather , including:

• severe storms
• earthquakes

The monsoon season is from May to October, bringing:

• widespread flooding , including flash floods

Disruptions to services are likely during severe weather events, including:

• electricity
• communications

Cyclones can happen between April and October. Confirm the location of your local shelter as soon as possible.

Check the  Myanmar Department of Meteorology and Hydrology  for news on conditions.

Earthquakes

Earthquakes occur in Myanmar.

Past earthquakes have damaged major cities in Myanmar, including Yangon and Bagan.

Myanmar's exposure to earthquakes makes destructive tsunamis more likely.

If there's a natural disaster:

• take official warnings seriously
• don't enter areas affected by flooding, landslides or other natural disasters without advice from local authorities
• know your hotel's evacuation plans
• keep your passport in a safe, waterproof place
• keep in contact with friends and family
• monitor the media, other local news and the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• follow the advice of local authorities

Travel insurance

If you choose to remain in, or travel to, Myanmar despite our advice, make sure you have comprehensive  travel insurance  for the duration of your stay. 

Confirm what your policy covers, including activities, care, and health and travel disruptions. Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

Most Australian policies won't cover you for travel where the travel advice is 'do not travel'.

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need
• arrange appropriate medical supplies

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

Counselling services

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (HealthDirect Australia)

Health risks

Medical facilities in Myanmar are severely stretched, particularly outside Yangon. Hospitals have closed or ceased providing services at short notice. Medical evacuations may be delayed or not possible.

Some  COVID-19  restrictions continue to apply in Myanmar, including on entry into Myanmar. Stay-at-home orders have been used in the past to curb transmission.

You can find  information on COVID-19 in Myanmar  on the Ministry of Health and Sports website (Burmese). 

If authorities assess you have COVID-19, you may be required to isolate at home or be quarantined at a local facility.

Polio and other vaccine-preventable diseases

Check the  Australian Immunisation Handbook (Department of Health and Aged Care) if you chose to travel to Myanmar despite our advice.

Make sure you're up to date with recommended vaccinations, including  polio (Department of Health and Aged Care). You may need a booster.

Speak with your doctor. If you're not sure if you're vaccinated for polio, ask. Also check your need for vaccines for:

• hepatitis A

Insect-borne diseases

In many areas, insect-borne diseases are widespread. These include:

• dengue fever
• chikungunya
• Japanese encephalitis

To protect yourself from disease:

• ensure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• consider taking medicine to prevent malaria
• get vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis before you leave Australia

HIV/AIDS  is common in Myanmar. Take precautions if you engage in activities that expose you to the virus.

Rabies  can be fatal. It's found in various animals in Myanmar.

Never feed, pat or tease dogs or monkeys.

If a dog, monkey or other animal bites or scratches you, get treatment as soon as possible.

• Infectious diseases

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common and include:

• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid uncooked and undercooked food, such as salads

Get urgent medical help if you think you have food poisoning, or if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Myanmar. Take enough legal medicine for your trip. 

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating: 

• what the medication is 
• your required dosage 
• that it's for personal use 

Get advice from a  Myanmar embassy or consulate  on quantity restrictions that may apply.

Be aware that medications for sale in Myanmar are often fake.

More information: 

• Medication  

Medical care

Medical facilities.

The standard of medical facilities in Myanmar is extremely limited, particularly outside Yangon. Hospitals have closed or ceased providing services at short notice.

Avoid any surgical procedures, including dental work. Unclean medical instruments can cause infections such as:

Emergency medical care, including ambulances, is often not available. An ambulance service (often without a paramedic) is attached to most private hospitals. Each has its own phone number.

Private hospitals may not be able to accept foreign patients. You may need to pay cash up-front before receiving medical treatment.

If you become seriously ill or experience a major injury, a medical evacuation may be delayed or not possible. 

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws should you choose to travel to, or remain, in Myanmar despite our advice.

In February 2024, the military administration announced a 2010 conscription law would be enacted. If local authorities consider you are a citizen of Myanmar, you may be subject to serve in the armed forces. The length of service can depend on criteria such as age, occupation, and whether there is a state of emergency. Myanmar does not recognise dual nationality. You may not be exempt from this law if you are an Australian-Myanmar dual national holding an Australian passport.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Myanmar authorities don't always notify consular staff about Australians arrested, detained or deported from Myanmar. If you're  arrested or jailed , ask to contact the Australian Embassy immediately.

Penalties for drug offences are severe and include the death penalty.

• Carrying or using drugs

Traffic accidents

It's illegal to leave the scene of an accident. Drivers involved in an accident with another vehicle are usually detained if there are injuries. A driver involved in an accident with a pedestrian is always at fault, regardless of what happened. Authorities are likely to detain the driver.

Legal cases to resolve traffic disputes can be long. They can affect your visa status. Drivers often expect a cash payment to settle the matter at the time of the accident.

You could be charged costs for injuries or damaged vehicles. The embassy can't help you negotiate. However, they can give you a list of lawyers who may be able to assist.

Myanmar has the death penalty for serious offences, including murder, treason, and drug-related crimes.

These activities are illegal in Myanmar:

• engaging in same-sex sexual acts or adultery
• taking photos of military personnel or sites
• entering or leaving Myanmar with religious materials without Customs approval
• preaching or handing out religious materials without written approval
• 'insulting religion', including mistreating images of Buddha - if you have a tattoo of Buddha, keep it covered
• defaming or threatening someone using a telecommunications network
• operating drones around sensitive areas such as, government or religious buildings

It's also illegal to:

• rent a private home if you're on a tourist visa — tourists must stay in registered accommodation
• drive a car or motorcycle without a valid local driving licence
• leave the scene of a road accident
• drink alcohol in public places such as parks, religious buildings or compounds

Don't post negative comments about individuals or Myanmar on social media.

Customs laws on banned imports and exports can be unclear and change without notice. Ask a Myanmar embassy or consulate  about the latest rules.

• LGBTQIA+ travellers

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law

Dual citizenship

Myanmar doesn't recognise dual nationality.

If you're a dual citizen, this limits the  consular services  we can provide if you're arrested or detained.

Always travel on your Australian passport.

• Dual nationals

Local customs

People in Myanmar are deeply respectful of their religious and cultural traditions.

Standards of dress and behaviour are modest.

It's considered offensive to touch or pat anyone on the top of the head.

Respect local customs and take care not to offend. If in doubt, seek local advice.

Avoid wearing sleeveless tops and shorts in Myanmar, especially when visiting religious sites. It may cause offence.

Always take off your shoes and socks before entering religious sites.

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

You need a visa to enter and stay in Myanmar. Entering without a visa can result in a prison sentence.

Contact the nearest Immigration Office to extend your visa if you intend to lengthen your stay in Myanmar.

If you choose to travel, despite our advice, you can obtain further information and apply for a tourist or business visa at your nearest  Myanmar embassy  or the  Ministry of Immigration and Population  website.   

The Australian Embassy is not able to support individual visa applications.

You can't use e-Visas at seaports. 

Be aware of unauthorised websites that claim to offer e-Visas. Some websites will provide a genuine visa for an extra fee, but others are fake.

Be careful about using links in emails or other websites to access the official site. Use official Myanmar government services to arrange your visa to avoid being scammed.

The local government strictly controls travel to parts of Myanmar, including through visa conditions. Authorities have deported or detained Australians for visa offences.

You should maintain a valid visa at all times.

If you overstay your visa, authorities won't let you leave until you pay a fine. You might also be:

• blacklisted, so you can never return

If you break other visa conditions, authorities could arrest or deport you.

Meet your visa conditions at all times.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest  embassy or consulate  for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Border requirements

Ensure you have a valid visa prior to travel and meet Myanmar's entry requirements. The Australian Embassy cannot support your request to board an incoming flight.

The following entry requirements apply:

• you'll be subject to a thermal screening conducted by the airport health authorities upon arrival to Myanmar. You'll need to meet the cost of testing, isolation and medical treatment costs, including COVID-19, during your stay in Myanmar. 
• if you develop signs or symptoms of COVID-19 during your stay in Myanmar, you must report to health authorities

Confirm entry requirements directly with your nearest  Myanmar Embassy or Consulate  and the Ministry of Health and Sports, as quarantine protocols are subject to change at short notice.

Departing Myanmar

There are international flights departing Yangon and Mandalay. Book directly with airlines or through your travel agent.

Border crossings

Travel to or from Myanmar by land border crossings can be unpredictable. Crossings can be opened or closed without prior notice.

Since November 2016, foreigners have not been allowed to travel to the Muse (Shan State)-Ruili (China) border crossing.

See  Safety

Other formalities

Staying in myanmar.

You must stay in registered hotels and guesthouses.

If you plan to stay for more than 90 days, you must register your address with immigration authorities. You must also obtain a Foreigners Registration Card.

Let Immigration know if you change hotels or will be away from your registered address.

Customs regulations are restrictive. Officials limit what you can bring into the country.

Declare foreign currency over $US10,000 or equivalent when you arrive and depart Myanmar. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash. If you don't, you could be jailed.

Customs authorities are sensitive about some communications equipment such as:

• radio equipment

If you don't declare restricted or banned items, customs may confiscate them. You may be able to collect undeclared items when you leave the country.

Strict rules control the export of:

• Buddha images

If you plan to take something home, check it's legal before you buy it.

• Embassy of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar
• Customs Department (Myanmar Customs Department)

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Office on 131 232
• If you’re overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

• LGBTQIA+ travellers  

The local currency is the Myanmar Kyat (MMK).

Cash is widely used. Foreign currency is sometimes refused because of people using fake notes.

A limited number of shops and businesses accept US Dollars as payment. Notes with pen marks, folds or tears, and old notes are often refused.

Other foreign currencies and travellers' cheques are rarely accepted.

It's illegal to exchange foreign currency except through authorised money changers. Find official money changers at Myanmar's international airports and in banks.

The banking sector has experienced widespread disruption, with many banks closed and some ATMs out of operation. Restrictions are in place regarding the use of foreign currencies, including using foreign currency bank accounts and limits on the amount of USD that can be held in cash. Ensure you comply with requirements.

There are daily and weekly limits on cash withdrawals from ATMs. Plan your travel accordingly. Some ATMs accept international cards. 

Ask your bank if your card will work in Myanmar.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at:

• restaurants

You should confirm before travel if intending to pay for hotels or restaurants with a credit or debit card. Vendors often charge additional fees for credit or debit card transactions.

Some businesses will not accept international cards, e.g. Mastercard, Visa or American Express.

Frequent electricity will not accept international cards, e.g. Mastercard, Visa or American Express.

International money transfers to Myanmar may be restricted.

Local travel

The military administration controls travel within parts of Myanmar, including to and from land border crossings.

If despite our advice you plan to travel within Myanmar, check movement restrictions with local authorities. Visit the  Ministry of Labour, Immigration and Population  website for a list of restricted areas.

A curfew is in place across Myanmar. Stay at home during curfew hours.

Movement restrictions, including stay-at-home orders, curfews and quarantines, may be imposed at short notice (see  Safety ). Monitor the media closely. 

Australian Embassy staff need to seek approval to undertake official travel within Myanmar. This may affect our ability to provide consular assistance.

Landmines and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs)

Unmarked landmines and IEDs make parts of Myanmar dangerous. These devices are used in:

• areas of conflict
• near borders
• city and urban areas

Landmine locations may not be marked. Stay on established roads.

Myanmar New Year and Water Festival

Myanmar's Water Festival (Thingyan) and New Year is celebrated in April each year. There's an increased risk of road accidents due to:

• drunk drivers
• overcrowded vehicles

In past years, crime has increased during the festival. Pay attention to your personal security.

Many services close down for Thingyan, including:

• supermarkets
• government offices

Roads are sometimes closed in Yangon and other regional centres. Plan ahead.

Identification

Travellers are often asked to show their passport and visa to authorities. This often occurs:

• for domestic air travel
• for train travel
• when staying at hotels

Foreigners who stay in Myanmar for more than 90 days have to show their Foreigners Registration Card.

Local safety standards

The safety standards you might expect of service providers are not always met. This applies to:

• transport and tour operators, including for adventure activities

Operators may not provide suitable safety equipment. Maintenance and safety standards may be poor or non-existent.

If you plan to do an adventure activity:

• check if your insurance policy covers it
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Internet and telephone services

Communication services in Myanmar are restricted in many parts of the country.

Internet services are available but are unreliable outside cities and large towns. Restrictions on internet access apply, including to social media and messaging applications.

The phone network is also unreliable and limited outside of cities and large towns.

You can send and receive text messages only from some Australian mobiles to mobile phones inside Myanmar. Many travellers buy a local pre-paid SIM card. 

If you're subscribing for urgent travel advice updates by SMS, ensure you can receive text messages on your phone number.

The military administration has in the past, suspended telecommunications services in response to the security situation without prior notice . 

Driving permits

It's illegal to drive cars or motorbikes using an Australian or international driving licence.

You must have a valid Myanmar driver's licence.

You can apply for this through the  Road Transport Administration Department Myanmar .

Road travel

You're more likely to be killed in a car accident in Myanmar than in Australia.

Roads in Myanmar are dangerous because of:

• traffic congestion
• aggressive driving practices
• poorly maintained vehicles and roads
• people and livestock on the road
• lack of street lighting

Roads in mountainous border areas can be particularly poor. Many drivers in regional areas don't use their headlights at night.

Vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road. However, both left-hand and right-hand drive vehicles are used throughout the country. This adds to the dangerous driving conditions.

Australian Embassy staff are advised to avoid travelling by car in the countryside at night. This includes travelling on the Yangon-Naypyitaw-Mandalay highway and National Highway 1, linking Yangon and Mandalay. There are reports of attacks on these expressways. 

Military and immigration checkpoints on roads are common, including in Yangon and other major cities.

If you plan to drive:

• check your travel insurance covers you
• get a local licence
• become familiar with Myanmar traffic laws
• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Check with your travel insurer whether your policy covers you when riding a motorbike.

Companies that hire motorbikes often don't supply helmets. Most helmets bought locally don't meet Australian safety standards.

Always wear a helmet.

Registered taxis have red licence plates and are easy to find.

Agree on the fare with the driver before your trip.

Take extra care if using taxis at night. Availability of taxis are limited near curfew. Allow adequate time to return to your accommodation prior to curfew.

Many taxis are in poor condition.

Registered rideshare services operate in Yangon.

Public transport

Public transport  doesn't meet international safety standards. This includes:

Fatal accidents have occurred, especially at night.

Search and rescue resources are very limited.

Domestic airlines may sometimes implement travel restrictions due to the security environment. Changes to travel protocols and flight availability may occur at short notice.

The safety record of domestic airlines is not available. There is no data about how well local planes are maintained. This lack of transparency raises concerns about airline safety.

Airlines operating in Myanmar sometimes use aircraft from outside their own fleet. When this happens, passengers are not told in advance.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Myanmar's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer or

Call 192 (Yangon General Hospital) or an international clinic.

Medical assistance, including during emergencies, may be limited during curfew hours.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Check the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular help, contact the Australian Embassy in Yangon. Our ability to provide consular services in Myanmar is extremely limited.

Australian Embassy, Yangon

Vantage Tower 623 Pyay Road Yangon, Myanmar Phone: (+95) 1 230 7410 Fax: (+95) 1 230 7425 Email:  [email protected] Website:  myanmar.embassy.gov.au Facebook:  Australian Embassy in Myanmar

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

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THE TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS BELOW HAVE ALL BEEN EXTENDED TO 31/1/2021(#DATE) .

  All foreign nationals travelling to Myanmar will have to provide evidence of PCR &/or serology test showing absence of COVID19 infection conducted 72 hours before the flight before they can board the aircraft. Traveller must also show evidence of home quarantine in the country of departure for 7 days before departure. Upon arrival in Myanmar, they will be subjected to 7-day facility quarantine and a COVID-19 test. Those who test negative for COVID-19 will need to complete another 7 days of home quarantine. [Note: Diplomats are permitted to serve the full 14 days of quarantine at their residences if they are living in a house with its own compound.] If they test positive, they will be sent to one of the designated hospitals at the traveller’s own expense. According to Myanmar’s National Health Laboratory, the cost of one COVID-19 test is 200,000 kyats  

Myanmar has suspended all visa-free privileges and issuance of visas. International commercial passenger flights to and from Myanmar have also been suspended until #DATE. Relief flights, all-cargo flights, medical evacuation flights and special flights approved by the Myanmar Department of Civil Aviation are exempted. Myanmar has also closed all land borders to foreign tourists.

Exemptions to the above are as follows:

Foreign nationals who need to enter Myanmar due to urgent official or compelling reasons, including accredited and resident diplomats/officials must obtain entry visas through Myanmar Embassies abroad, and provide certification of the absence of COVID-19 infection within 72 hours of travel.

Below are some of the more relevant announcements by the various ministries in Myanmar. Take note that as the COVID19 situations are constantly evolving we advice you to check with the respective government ministry’s websites for the latest info.

31/12/2020 – The Myanmar government has banned travellers from United Kingdom & Northern Ireland from entering Myanmar due to the new COVID19 variant from the UK that are more transmissible.

7/9/2020 – Health ministry reduces quarantine period of COVID19 positive patients from 21 days to 14 days.

29/3/2020 – the Myanmar Department of Civil Aviation (DCA) announced that starting 30/3/2020 2359 hrs to 13/4/2020 2359 hrs all landing permissions by international commercial passenger flights at all Myanmar airports will be suspended. See #DATE above for latest extension date.

24/3/2020 –  All foreign nationals are required to present laboratory evidence of absence of COVID19 infection issued no more than 72 hours prior to the date of travel before boarding any airline destined for Myanmar . All visitors (including Myanmar nationals) will be subjected to mandatory facility quarantine for 14 days upon arrival .

20/3/2020 – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) announced the temporary suspension of all visa-on-arrival and e-visa for all countries until 30/4/2020. See #DATE above for latest extension date.

18/3/2020 – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) announced the closure of all border checkpoints to foreign tourists as a preventative measure against the corona virus. This with includes all land crossings with Thailand, China, India and Laos . See #DATE above for latest extension date.

Our Office in Yangon

Myanmar Travel Restrictions

If you read the news on a regular basis and keep up to date with what’s happening in Asia, you may think that Burma is in a state of conflict. Whilst there are a few Myanmar travel restrictions near the borders, travelling to most of the country isn’t off limits. You can find lots of wonderful people and places to visit and will feel completely safe during your trip.

Don’t be disillusioned by current conflicts. Get your visa to Myanmar and visit this fascinating country in Southeast Asia to see how safe it is for yourself. This article aims to answer the question is it safe to travel to Myanmar and offer some advice on travel restrictions in the country.

Is it Safe to Travel to Myanmar?

The short answer is that it’s very safe to travel to Myanmar. Local Burmese tend to be conservative Buddhist, which is associated with a kind personality and hospitality towards strangers. You won’t feel threatened about your personal security in any part of the country and will probably find that the locals are warm and helpful.

In fact, Yangon is considered to be the safest large city in Southeast Asia. Though, it doesn’t give you an excuse to walk around flashing your expensive electronics. Myanmar is a poor country and opportunistic thieves do exist.

Tourists find it safe to walk around alone at any time of the day. Locals will rarely approach you apart from trying to sell you something or get you to join their freelance tour. A shake of the head and a polite no usually deters them.

You may get a few people approaching you, but this is probably mostly because you’re a foreigner in a country that gets relatively few. It’s almost always out of curiosity and for the local Burmese to practice their English.

Tourist Visa Restrictions in Myanmar

This section describes the essentials about getting a tourist visa to visit Burma and offers some tips and suggestions for safe travel in Myanmar. First, let’s look at do you need a visa for Myanmar?

Most nationalities need to apply for a 28-day e-Visa in advance of travelling to the country. This costs $50 and takes a few days to process after you complete an online application form, upload a recent photograph, and make the payment. Your visa is then valid for travel anywhere between one to three months.

The tourist visa allows you to visit most parts of the country without facing any problems or travel restrictions on the typical tourist trail. You shouldn’t face any problems or complications with your tourist visa when you travel to Yangon, Bagan , Mandalay , or Inle Lake . And as mentioned above, it’s very safe to walk around with Myanmar having very little crimes targeted towards foreigners.

However, there are parts of the country that are off limits to tourists due to civil unrest and ongoing conflicts . It’s best to stay away from these areas at all costs to protect yourself from danger and to avoid the wrath of the police or government. Myanmar travel restrictions are discussed below in the next section.

Restricted Areas in Myanmar

Myanmar is a safe destination to visit if you stick to the tourist trail. The country does suffer from internal conflicts with different ethnic groups but going into detail is way beyond the scope of this article. There are a number of travel warnings on Myanmar that advise against all but essential travel to large parts of Shan State, Kachin State, and Rakhine State . And you’re also likely to encounter a number of other Burma travel restrictions as a tourist if you want to get far off the beaten track and explore some of the hard to reach places.

The government restricts tourists from visiting most parts of Shan State apart from the capital Lashio and two other smaller towns. There are also current travel restrictions in Kachin State but tourists can travel to Putao, Bhamo, and Myitkyina. This is because Myanmar is in the midst of ongoing conflicts in both the northern part of Shan and Kachin States.

And large parts of Rakhine State are also off limits to tourists because of the civil unrest. However, the tourist resort of Ngapali is still accessible and the route connecting this region to the airport.

Some areas near the border with Thailand, Laos, and China are volatile. Clashes between armed insurgents and the military aren’t uncommon. Banditry and unexploded mines also increase the risks in these areas and you should avoid going anywhere near them. Don’t even think about trying to reach these parts of Myanmar without the correct permission from the authorities. Expect lots of checkpoints along the road as you enter the restricted areas and if you don’t have the necessary permission or paperwork, you’ll be forced back.

It’s also important to mention that there are other Myanmar travel restrictions that aren’t mentioned in this article. And also be aware that what may be accessible today may very well be out of bounds in a few months. But this is extremely unlikely to happen in Yangon, Bagan, Mandalay and Inle Lake.

The best piece of advice is to check the official travel advice on Myanmar from your home country before you visit. Click here for a more comprehensive list of restricted areas in Myanmar.

Other Safety Issues in Myanmar

This section will quickly cover a few other things that you should be aware of as a tourist travelling to Burma. Whilst they aren’t directly linked to travel restrictions, you should be aware of them to ensure you stay safe.

The biggest danger in Myanmar is with the road safety. Cars don’t stop to allow pedestrians to cross and street lighting is poor in some parts of the counties. Roads aren’t in the best of conditions and traffic laws aren’t always observed. This can make crossing the road difficult at the best of times. Flooding and frequent blackouts also make this a little more dangerous. Bring a flashlight when you go out after dark.

The Water Festival that celebrates the New Year in Myanmar during April has the potential to become volatile and a little dangerous for tourists. The festival is characterised by the locals throwing water at each other. Everything is in good spirits and everyone has a fun time. But, people drink heavily and drug use increases. This can make it a little dangerous later in the evening after the locals have spent the day binging. Traffic accidents and road deaths shoot up too during the Water Festival.

Another issue to be aware of is that Myanmar takes religion very seriously. If you insult Buddhism or show any disrespect towards it, you may be faced with criminal charges or even attacked by local vigilante groups. You wouldn’t go to the Middle East and openly insult Islam because of the consequences, so don’t do it with Buddhism in Myanmar.

To Sum It Up

The bottom line is that Myanmar is a very safe place to travel to if you don’t try to go too far off the beaten track. A number of restrictions are in place to areas of civil unrest including parts of Shan, Kachin, and Rakhine. Read the latest Burma travel warnings and avoid places where the government doesn’t want tourists to visit and your trip to Myanmar will be completely safe.

Articles Travel Requirements - Myanmar

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04/03/2024 • FAQs

Information.

• Effective 01 July 2023, travellers are permitted to enter Myanmar regardless of their vaccination status.
• Effective 01 July 2023, travellers are permitted to enter Myanmar regardless of their vaccination status.
• Travellers are no longer need to fill out and submit the Health Declaration card upon arrival.
• Travellers are not required to purchase health insurance.

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Travel Advisory for Myanmar

26 June 2023

In view of the continuing uncertain security situation in Myanmar, Singaporeans are strongly advised to defer all travel to Myanmar at this time. Singaporeans currently in Myanmar should also consider leaving as soon as they can by commercial means. Singaporeans who choose to remain in Myanmar are strongly advised to avoid unnecessary travel within the country; there are also direct and indirect restrictions on travel by foreigners to many locations. Singaporeans are reminded to remain vigilant and monitor local news closely. They should take necessary precautions for their personal safety, and eRegister immediately at https://eregister.mfa.gov.sg . This will enable the Ministry and our Embassy in Yangon to continue to be in touch with them and render the necessary consular assistance in case of emergencies. Those who are in need of consular assistance while in Myanmar should contact the Singapore Embassy in Yangon or the 24-hour MFA Duty Office at: Embassy of the Republic of Singapore in Yangon 238 Dhamazedi Road, Bahan Township, Yangon, Republic of the Union of Myanmar Tel: +95-1-9-559-001 Emergency Tel (after hours): +95-9-250-863-840 Ministry of Foreign Affairs Duty Office (24-hours) Tel: 6379 8800, 6379 8855 Fax: 6476 7302        

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Entry and Exit

Safety and security.

Please note that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Singapore has a prevailing travel advisory for Singaporeans to defer  all  travel to Myanmar. A state of emergency remains in place across Myanmar. The security situation is unpredictable and can change quickly without notice.

If you  must  travel, given the volatile security situation in Myanmar , Singaporeans are strongly advised to refrain from travelling outside Yangon due to the heightened security risks. There are also direct and indirect restrictions on travel by foreigners to many locations.   MFA may not be able to render consular assistance outside Yangon given the security situation and lack of safe access to various conflict zones across Myanmar.  Singaporeans are reminded to be vigilant and to take precautions for their personal safety, including avoiding crowds and monitoring the local news.

Please note that most travel insurance in Singapore does not cover countries subject to an MFA travel advisory, including Myanmar.

Travellers  should stay in touch with their family and friends so that they know you are safe.  Singaporeans are strongly advised to e-Register with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at  https://eregister.mfa.gov.sg/ .

The Singapore Embassy issues Travel, Security and Health Advisories on our website. Please visit the Embassy’s website at  www.mfa.gov.sg/yangon  for the latest advisories on Myanmar.

Visitors are encouraged to visit the website of the Myanmar Ministry of Hotels and Tourism at  www.tourism.gov.mm  for more information, especially on restricted areas.

Singaporeans currently in Myanmar should consider leaving as soon as they can by commercial means. If you must stay in Myanmar, Singaporeans are advised to:

• Do not travel to any conflict areas.
• Avoid travel to townships under martial law. Martial law has been declared in 55 townships across Myanmar as of 29 November 2023. Travel by foreigners to many other locations in Myanmar has also been prohibited.
• Avoid public socialising and crowded areas so as not to be mistaken for a participant in a demonstration. 
• Check the curfew hours currently in place in your region and comply with them.  The curfew hours currently in force in Yangon are from 0000 hours to 0400 hours .
• If you must leave your residence, avoid crowded places and do not take any photos or videos of protests. Bring a copy of your identity document (e.g. passport) with you and keep a family member or friend updated on your location.
• If you are stopped at a security checkpoint, comply with instructions from the security personnel and present all requested documentation.
• Report overnight guests to the ward or village administration office as required by the ‘Ward or Village Administration Act’. Failure to comply is punishable with either a fine of 10,000 kyats or 7 days in prison.
• Be ready for any escalation of violence . Ensure that your mobile phone is charged and keep a power bank with you . Keep at least 2 weeks’ worth of food and essential supplies within reach (where possible). Singaporeans are strongly reminded to ensure that they have adequate supplies of basic medicines. Those with chronic illnesses should also ensure that they have adequate supplies of their required medication .
• Ensure that you have sufficient funds to leave the country in an emergency, as credit card facilities may not be available at that time. For those who have overstayed in Myanmar and have not settled matters with the Immigration Department, you may be required to pay an overstay fine at the airport. The rate is USD 3 per day for overstay of 1 to 90 days and USD 5 per day for overstay of over 90 days (i.e. Day 91 onwards). The authorities will only accept payment in cash and in USD.
• Monitor the local news closely and comply with the instructions of the local authorities. Singaporeans are strongly advised to check with your relevant township authorities on the restrictions in your township and comply with them accordingly. The situation remains volatile and new regulations may be announced with little to no notice.

Singapore dollars can be legally exchanged at the market rate at licensed money-changers in Yangon. Singaporeans are advised to purchase kyat  only in Myanmar , at licensed money changers. They should always request a receipt when changing money and should retain it for future reference. It is not legal under Myanmar law to purchase kyat outside Myanmar. 

Tourists visiting Myanmar are only allowed to stay in hotels and not in residential properties (i.e. not allowed to stay with friends/business partners, etc.), temples or monasteries. A social visit visa is required if you wish to stay at any other property apart from a hotel. The Social Visit Visa can be applied for at the Myanmar Embassy in Singapore.

It is important to be respectful of religion in Myanmar. Failing to do so could lead to an arrest.

Do not bring drones into Myanmar without the necessary permits. There are strict laws on the importation and use of drones in Myanmar. Please check with the Myanmar Embassy in Singapore for more information.

Additional information

Myanmar is an earthquake-prone country. It is advisable to read up on what to do in the event of an earthquake. During the monsoon season from May to November each year, cyclones may make landfall in Myanmar, especially near coastal areas. Affected areas may experience floods and strong winds. Travellers should take the necessary precautions during cyclone alerts and heed the instructions of the local authorities.

Advisory: Email Scams There have been reports of individuals receiving scam emails/messages purportedly sent from friends in distress overseas. These emails/messages typically originate from an email address/social media known to the receiver bearing claims of the sender getting into trouble overseas and urgently requesting financial assistance. The sender would also claim to have approached a Singapore Embassy/Consulate and the local police for help to no avail. MFA takes the safety of all Singaporeans very seriously. Singaporeans in distress approaching our Overseas Missions for assistance will be rendered with all necessary consular assistance. If you receive emails/messages from purported friends seeking funds transfers, we strongly advise you to call them first to verify the authenticity of the emails/messages before responding to their request. It is also not advisable to give out any personal information such as NRIC/passport nos., address, telephone number, etc. Any form of reply, even   one of non-interest, could result in more unsolicited emails. Members of the public who suspect that they have fallen prey to such scams should report the matter to the Police immediately. Should Singaporeans abroad require consular assistance, they can contact the nearest  Mission  or call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs 24-hr Duty Office at  +65 6379 8800 / +65 6379 8855 .

General Travel Advice

Overseas Travel – Be Informed & Be Safe [Updated on 5 February 2024]

Singaporeans planning overseas travel are reminded to take the necessary precautions, including being prepared to deal with accidents, natural disasters or terrorist attacks. Singaporeans are also reminded to be familiar with your destination’s local laws, customs, and COVID-19 regulations.

Demonstrations do occur in major cities across the world. Such demonstrations can sometimes escalate into violence. It is important for Singaporeans to keep abreast of local news, avoid any protests or demonstrations and heed the advice of the local authorities.

When participating in outdoor leisure activities overseas, Singaporeans should be mindful that certain sporting activities, especially in open seas, may carry risks. Besides ensuring that one has the physical competencies and appropriate condition to undertake the activity, every effort should be made to ascertain if the trip organiser or guide is reliable and competent, and that appropriate safety and contingency plans are in place. When in doubt, Singaporeans should consult the relevant professional bodies or sporting associations for specific advice.

For those planning to travel, here are some tips:

Before travelling

• Familiarise yourself with our network of overseas missions.
• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance and be familiar with the terms and coverage.
• Equip yourself with research about your destination’s entry requirements, current situation, local laws and customs.
• eRegister with us on our website ( www.mfa.gov.sg ) so that we may reach out to you during an emergency.

While travelling

• Always take care of your personal safety, remain vigilant and monitor local weather news, advisories, and security developments.
• Exercise caution around large gatherings and avoid locations known for demonstrations or disturbances.
• Be prepared for possible delays and last-minute changes in travel plans especially during unforeseen events such as natural disasters, social unrest or terror attacks.
• Stay connected with your friends and family. Inform them of your whereabouts and provide them with your overseas contact details.
• In the event that you require consular assistance, please contact the nearest Singapore Overseas Mission or call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Duty Office at +65 6379 8800/+65 6379 8855.

Advisory: Email Scams

There have been reports of individuals receiving scam emails/messages purportedly sent from friends in distress overseas. These emails/messages typically originate from an email address/social media known to the receiver bearing claims of the sender getting into trouble overseas and urgently requesting financial assistance. The sender would also claim to have approached a Singapore Embassy/Consulate and the local Police for help to no avail.

MFA takes the safety of all Singaporeans very seriously.  Singaporeans in distress approaching our Overseas Missions for assistance will be rendered with all necessary consular assistance.  If you receive such emails/messages from purported friends seeking funds transfers, we strongly advise you to call them first to verify the authenticity of the emails/messages before responding to their request.  It is also not advisable to give out any personal information such as NRIC/passport numbers, address, telephone number, etc.  Any form of reply, even one of non-interest, could result in more unsolicited emails.  Members of the public who suspect that they have fallen prey to such scams should report the matter to the Police immediately.  Should Singaporeans abroad require consular assistance, they can contact the nearest Singapore Overseas  Mission  or call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs 24-hr Duty Office at +65 6379 8800/+65 6379 8855.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is a ministry of the Government of Singapore responsible for conducting and managing diplomatic relations between Singapore and other countries and regions.

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Why Myanmar’s War Matters, Even if the World Isn’t Watching

A devastating, yearslong civil war is heating up, but it still hasn’t attracted broad international notice.

By Mike Ives

Mike Ives reported from Myanmar several times in the years before the country’s 2021 military coup.

An escalating civil war threatens to break apart a country of roughly 55 million people that sits between China and India. That has international consequences, but the conflict hasn’t commanded wide attention .

Over the past six months, resistance fighters in Myanmar’s hinterlands have been defeating the ruling military junta in battle after battle, stunning analysts. That raises the possibility that the junta could be at risk of collapsing.

The resistance now controls more than half of Myanmar’s territory

Areas of control

Largely military junta control

Largely resistance control

Bay of Bengal

Source: The map is a simplified adaptation based on an effective control map produced by the Special Advisory Council for Myanmar (SAC-M). The original map provides more granular details of the situation of control.

By Weiyi Cai

The war is already a human rights catastrophe . Myanmar’s implosion since a 2021 military coup has wrecked its economy, throwing millions of people into extreme poverty. Its reputation as a hub for drugs, online scam centers and money laundering is growing. And its destabilization has created strategic headaches for China, India, the United States and other countries.

Here’s a primer.

A coup opened the path to disaster.

Myanmar is not a democracy. The junta allowed elections more than a decade ago, enabling Daw Aung San Suu Kyi , the daughter of an assassinated independence hero, to sit in Parliament . She later led a civilian government. But the junta controlled key levers of power through a military-drafted Constitution.

In 2021, the generals arrested Ms. Aung San Suu Kyi — who by then had lost her halo as a human rights icon — and staged a coup . That set off demonstrations, a brutal crackdown on mostly peaceful protesters, and waves of resistance from armed fighters.

The civil war is not new. Myanmar’s Army has been on a war footing since the former British colony gained independence in 1948. The recent fighting is unusual because many civilians from the country’s Bamar ethnic majority have taken up arms alongside ethnic groups that have been battling the army for decades.

Fighting has killed thousands of civilians.

In the years before the coup, Myanmar was emerging from decades of isolation under oppressive military rule. Companies like Ford, Coca-Cola and Mastercard made big investments . In Yangon, the largest city, tourists wandered among gilded pagodas and grand colonial-era buildings.

Now, bombings have put Yangon on edge, Western nations have imposed financial sanctions on members of the military regime, and thousands of middle-class people have fled to jungles to fight alongside ethnic insurgencies.

Civilians are bearing the costs. The fighting has killed thousands and displaced nearly three million others . The country is now littered with land mines, and extreme inflation has contributed to a drastic shrinking of the middle class , according to the United Nations.

The health sector is in crisis , partly because the regime has targeted doctors . Among the many problems, childhood vaccinations have essentially stopped, and malaria has increased substantially. Experts worry about the spread of H.I.V. and tuberculosis.

The rebels gain territory.

Rebels have seized large chunks of territory since October, the month an alliance of ethnic groups near the China border, in Shan State, captured several towns . Some have attacked the capital, Naypyidaw, with drones and made swift advances in several border regions. In recent weeks, rebels from the Karen ethnic group captured a trading town that lies east of Yangon along the Thai border — a once-unthinkable target. Neighboring Karenni State could be the first to entirely free itself of junta control.

There have also been advances in Kachin State, in the northeast, where the army controls lucrative jade mines , and in the western border state of Rakhine, where Myanmar soldiers and their militia allies once slaughtered members of the Rohingya Muslim minority, causing hundreds of thousands to flee to neighboring Bangladesh .

Some analysts say the Arakan Army, a powerful ethnic militia in Rakhine, could soon take Sittwe, the heavily guarded state capital.

The conflict reverberates internationally.

The war has regional and international consequences. Russia and other countries have sold the Myanmar army at least a billion dollars’ worth of weapons since the 2021 coup, according to the United Nations. China sees threats to the infrastructure projects it has funded across the country. And India, which has long feared chaos in its borderlands, is deporting Myanmar refugees .

Thailand, Myanmar’s eastern neighbor, is similarly concerned about the estimated 40,000 or more refugees that the United Nations predicts will cross the border this year. Bangladesh sees obstacles to its efforts to repatriate the Rohingya. And the United States has started to provide nonlethal aid to armed resistance groups.

So why doesn’t the war get more attention? One reason could be that Ms. Aung San Suu Kyi has gone from a Nobel Peace laureate, kept under house arrest by generals, to an apologist for their murderous campaign against the Rohingya.

Richard Horsey, an expert on Myanmar and an adviser to the International Crisis Group, said that her fall from grace killed the “democracy-versus-the-generals narrative” that would have helped to generate interest in the war.

“ The fairy tale narrative is gone,” he said. “And, you know, Sudan, right? Haiti? They don’t get as much attention either.”

Sui-Lee Wee contributed reporting.

Mike Ives is a reporter for The Times based in Seoul, covering breaking news around the world. More about Mike Ives